Early Life
J. Hyatt Brown was born on July 12, 1937, in Orlando, Florida, and grew up in Daytona Beach. He attended the University of Florida, laying the groundwork for his future in business and public service.
Rise to Success
Brown began his career in the insurance industry, founding Brown & Brown in 1961. Under his leadership, the company grew into one of the largest insurance agencies in the U.S., with thousands of employees and hundreds of locations worldwide. He retired as CEO in 2009, but remained chairman. Brown's financial success stems from prudent investments, knowledge of the insurance sector, and a strong work ethic.
Key Business Strategies
Brown & Brown's success is attributed to a focus on securing commercial accounts and a disciplined acquisition program. The company prioritized cultural fit in acquisitions, integrating high-quality businesses to fuel long-term success. Brown also emphasized growth and cash flow, crucial for driving shareholder value.
Philanthropy
Brown is a generous philanthropist, contributing millions to education, healthcare, and the arts. His notable donations include $13 million to the Museum of Arts and Sciences in Daytona Beach for the construction of the Brown Museum and $18 million to Stetson University.
